Sir Alex to play role in finding successor

Sir Alex Ferguson will advise Manchester United on who should be his successor, with the Premier League champions saying their next manager must have a proven track record in both league and European football.

It was a hint the early favourite David Moyes, who has never reached the quarter-finals of a European completion at Everton, might not be United's ideal candidate.

Gill also implied United have candidates in mind, adding: "We knew this day would come and we have been preparing for it. The board will take council from Sir Alex and Sir Bobby on the new appointment."

He also dismissed the suggestion that Ferguson's presence at Old Trafford could make it harder for the next manager.

Sir Matt Busby's successors, Wilf McGuinness and Frank O'Farrell, struggled with United's former manager still at the club and offering his input.

Gill added: "Alex will not make that mistake. Of that we can be certain. Everyone can rest assured the new manager will get the necessary space and necessary opportunity to do his job without interference."